Jim Cramer’s 10 Go-To Stocks for Success

3. Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST)

Number of Hedge Fund Investors: 71

Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST)’s membership-based model provides a steady and recurring revenue stream, supported by its large base of over 127 million global cardholders. By focusing on high-quality products at competitive prices, Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) has built strong customer loyalty and high membership renewal rates, which exceed 90% in the U.S. and Canada. This approach, combined with Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST)’s efficient operations and large-scale purchasing power, allows it to pass savings on to customers, enhancing its value and driving steady sales growth.

Jim Cramer highlights Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) as an exceptional performer despite not being involved in technology. He points out that Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST)’s success comes from its strong business model, which has delivered impressive results without relying on tech innovations.

“Costco, has nothing whatsoever to do with tech, yet has been an outstanding performer.”

In its Q4 2024 earnings report, Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) reported net sales of $78.94 billion, a 9.4% increase from the previous year. Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) achieved a net income of $2.16 billion, or $4.91 per diluted share, surpassing analysts’ expectations. This performance reflects Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST)’s effective cost management and ability to maintain strong pricing power amid inflationary pressures. Its solid cash position also provides flexibility for continued growth investments.

Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST)’s expansion strategy remains strong, with 28 new warehouse openings in 2024, including its first in New Zealand and Sweden. Expanding into markets like Asia and Europe offers significant opportunities for capturing more market share and driving long-term revenue growth. Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) is also making strides in e-commerce, with a 9.1% increase in online sales in Q4 2024, driven by rising demand for various product categories.

Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST)’s emphasis on delivering value to its members and maintaining high customer loyalty is evident in its strong renewal rates and unique private-label products like Kirkland Signature. Plans to increase membership fees in 2024 could further enhance revenue, given the historically low churn rates. Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST)’s successful holiday season, robust traffic, and exploration of new product categories and delivery options underscore its growth potential and market leadership.